At a glance
About 10% of all new cases of breast cancer in the United States are found in women younger than 45 years of age.
Overview
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States (some kinds of skin cancer are the most common).
Breast cancer in young women:
- Is more likely to be hereditary than breast cancer in older women.
- Is more common among African American women.
- Is more likely to be found at a later stage, and is often more aggressive and harder to treat.
- Often leads to concerns about body image, sexual health, fertility, feelings of isolation, mental health, and the financial burden of treatment and care.
All women are at risk for getting breast cancer, but some things can raise a woman's risk for getting breast cancer before age 45. It is important to learn what factors increase your chance of getting breast cancer and to talk with your health care provider about your concerns. Resources are available to help you assess your risk for early breast cancer.
Learning the symptoms of breast cancer also may also help you know when to talk to your doctor.